Parking meter and coin slot therefor



y 1942- w. J. HERSCHEDE ETAL 2,289,838

PARKING METER AND COIN SLOT THEREFOR Filed May 27, 1938 5 Sheets-Sheetl- W ATTORNEY.

y 1 2- w. J. HERSCHEDE ET AL 2,289,338

PARKING METER AND COIN SLOT THEREFOR Filed May 27, 1938 5 Sheets-Sheet 2y1 1 42. w. J. HERSCHEDE Em 2 2 9, 38

PARKING METER AND COIN QLOT THEREFOR Filed May 27, 1938. '5 Sheets-Sheet5 INVENTORS.

.232 M ATTORNEY.

1942- w. J. HERSCHEDE ETAL 2,289,338

PARKING METER A ND COIN SLOT THEREFOR Filed May 27, 1938 5 Sheets-Sheet4 TORNEY.

1942- w. J. HERSCHEDE ET AL 2,289,838

PARKING METER AND COIN SLOT THEREFOR Filed May 27, 1958 5 Sheets-Sheet 5awe/whoa WILL/AM For HERGCHEDE WALTER J. HERsCHEDE WILL/AM N. WQODRUFFTheft Patented July 14, 1942 UNITED STATES "PATENT OFFICE PARKING METERJAND com sLo'r THEREFOR Walter J. Herschede, Cincinnati, William FoyHerschede, Forestville, and William N. Woodrufi, Cincinnati, Ohio,assignors, by mesne assignments, to International Vehicular Parking,Ltd., Washington, D. 0., a' corporation of Delaware Application May 27,1938, Serial No. 210,504

7 Claims.

Another object of the invention is to provide a device of the characterindicated wherein the coin slot mechanism is adapted to initiate operation of the timing mechanism only in response to the introductionthereinto, of a coin of the proper size or dimension.

Another object of the invention is to provide.

a coin slot of the character indicated, the parts of which are adaptedto overcome the difiiculties generally encountered by reason ofatmospheric conditions and the effects thereof upon various types andkinds of coins used-with devices of the character under consideration.

Another object of the invention is to provide a coin slot of thecharacter indicated wherein the parts thereof are so related and socooperate as to positivelymove a coin through the 5 mechanism thereofwhereby to complete the cycle of setting the clock mechanism inoperation and for transferring the coins to a proper receptacle,regardless of any action or control on the part of the person insertingthe coin into ing maybe efiectively closed by simple means,

. against unauthorized manipulation.

Another object of the invention is to provide a simple mountingarrangement for positioning the timing and coin slot mechanism within' ahousing or casing.

Another object is to effect certain improvements and simplifications inthe timing mechanism whereby to obviate certain objections heretoforeencountered in previously used devices intended for the same or similarpurpo es.

Another object of the inventionis to provide a device of the characterindicated-wherein the receipts that have accumulated incident to the useof the apparatus, may be held inaccessible to service employees whoseduties may require the winding of the timing mechanism and generalsupervision and repair of such parts of the device as may be readilyattended to through the openings provided in the casing for suchpurposes. I

Another object is to provide a device of the character indicated whereinthe servicing of various parts of the device may be effected withoutnecessitating removal thereof from the enclosing casing or-housingprovided therefor.

Another object is to provide a device of the character indicated, inwhich the various parts,

the coin slot, other than such action incident to the manual insertionand movement of the coin into the slot to such degree as will conditionthe referred to coin slot mechanisms for performing the indicatedfunctions.

Another object of the invention is to provide timing mechanism inconjunction with a coin slot, of such character and structure that samemay be handled as a unit in mounting and demounting same in a suitablehousing provided for receiving and protecting the said mechanisms fromthe elements and the curious persons who might otherwise tampertherewith.

Another object of the invention is to provide mechanisms of thecharacter indicated that are so related that the coin slot may bereadily made available from the exterior of the casing and also that thecoin slot mechanism may be serviced from the exterior of the casingthrough a suitable opening in the casing and which. openwhen inactive,are relieved of all stress or strain. attributable to the use of a clockspring or the equivalent therewith, for use as motive power.

These and other objects may be attained by the means described hereinand illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 is an elevational view showing one side of a device'embodying theinvention andmounted on a customary standard.

' Fig. 2 is an enlarged fragmental sectional view on line 22 of Fig. l,showing the front wall only.

' Fig. 3 is an enlarged fragmental sectional view of the device, showingthe rear wall only.

Fig. 4 is a rear view of a plate forming a detail of Fig. 3.

Fig. 5 is a side view of the plate shown in Fig. 4. Fig. 6 is asectional view of the structural details of the releasable attachmentmeans used ment of the plate.

Fig. 8 is a view of a movable shutter forming a detail of the inventionand which controls ac- .shown'in Figs. 8 and 9.

v invention.

housed within the casing and forming a detail of the invention.

Fig. 9 is a view of a locking bolt of a key controlled lock forcontrolling detachment of a plate or panel controlling access to theinterior of the housing, the locking bolt being associated with theshutter shown in Fig. 8, whereby to actuate the shutter from the keycontrolled lock.

Fig. 10 is an end view of the-associated parts Fig. 11 is an elevationalview of the clock mechanism disposed within the casing, and showing thatside thereof that is exposed at that portion .of the housing shown inFig. 1, when the detachable door or panel, shown in Fig. 1, is removed.

Fig. .12 is a detail view of parts shown in Fig. 11.

Fig. 13 is a view of parts shown in Fig. 11, but

observed from the rear of the mechanism shown in Fig. 11.

Fig. 14 is a view of the mechanism shown v Fig. 11, but observed fromthe rear thereof, part of the coin slot mechanism having been removed.Fig. 15 is an elevational view of part of the coin slot mechanism,absent from Fig. 14.

Fig. 16 is a rear view of the part shown in Fig. 15.

Fig. r: is a view similar to Fig. 16, but showin should properly becalled the rear or back of the device.

A large opening 33 (Fig. 1) is provided in the front face or wall '30,for which a removable door or panel 34 is provided. Access to theinterior of the casing, by way of the said large opening 33, permitsaccess to the instrumentalities that control attachment and detachmentof acoin -slot cover plate 35 (see Fig. 3) which serves as a detachableclosure or panel for the opening 36 in the rear face or wall 32 of thehousing 3|. The

opening 31 for which a hinged door 38 is proparts thereof in changedpositions, incident to introduction of a coin into the mechanism.

Fig. 18 is-an elevational view ofpartof a unit of the coin slotmechanism, shown in Fig. 14, and underlying a face plate; which has beenremoved but which is indicated in dotted lines.

Fig. 19 is a view of parts shown in'Fig. 18, looking at the rightsidethereof, or turned at an angle of ninety degrees.

Fig. 20 is a view similar to Fig; 19,'parts being omitted, and showingpositions assumed by parts thereof incident to introduction of a cointherein. Fig. 21 is an enlarged top view of parts shown in Fig. 18.

Fig. 22 is a fragmental elevational view of partsof a coin chute forminga detail of the Fig. 23 is an enlarged plan view of the device shown inFig. 14, parts being omitted.

Fig. 24 is a diagrammatic view showing thegear train forming a detail ofthe invention.

Fig. 25 is a detail elevational view of .parts of the signal controlmeans forming details of the invention.

vFig. 26 is a sectional view on line 26-26 of Fig. 23.

Fig. 2'7 is a sectional view on line 2'l2'| of Fig. 23.

Fig. 28 is a fragmental 'end elevational view of parts shown in Fig. 11.

Fig. 29 is a perspective view of the mechanism shown in Figs. 12, 13 and23, parts being omitted.

Fig. 30 is a perspective exploded view of the structure of Figs. 18 to21 inclusive.

Like reference characters denote like parts -throughout the severalviews of the drawings.

Considering now more particularly a "device in accordance with ourinvention, attention i directed to the drawings. In referring to partsof the device, (see Figs. 1, 2 and 3) reference will be made to the face30 of the casing or housing 3| as the front of the device and theopposite outer face 32 thereof will be referred to as" the rear of thedevice. Such terminology is used merely for facilitating description andnot for the purpose of limitation, particularly so because to somepersons it might appear that the face 30 vided. The hinged door controlsaccess to the lower portion of the internal chamber 45 in the housingand in which section ofthe internal chamber, the coins are collected andfrom which an authorized person may remove same, without disturbing anyother parts of the device. Suit-- able lock controlled means areprovided at 33 and 40 forcontrolling access by way of the panel 34 anddoor 33, to the'interior of the housing or casing 3|. Suitable bolts 4|and 42; associated with customary drums of key-controlled tumbler typelocks are provided for bolting or looking the panel and door to thecasing wall adjacent such panel and door.

The bolt 4| .is so connected to ashutter 43, mounted coaxial with thedrum of lock mechanism 33; (see Figs. 1, 2 and 8) that the shutter movesor oscillates with the drum or key 'employed therewith, such shutterserving to open and close an aperture 44 in panel 34 and through whichaperture 9. key may be inserted for winding the clock spring of themechanism contained withinthe chamber'45 in housing 3|. As here shown,(see Figs. 2, 9 and 10) said connection comprises pin I4, carried bybolt 4| and extending into aperture 15 in shutter 43 (see Fig.

'8) From this, it is to be understood that a suit-' able winding stem46, associated with the meter mechanism, is aligned with said aperture,in the complete or assembled device. The lock mechanism may be mountedon panel 34 in any suitable manner, for example, nut 16 may secure thestationary part of the lock to the panel, in accordance with customarypractice The panel 34, (see Fig. 1) for the large opening in the frontwall of the casing, is provided with means additional to the lock 39 andcooperating with the lock for detachable mounting of the panel in theopening 33. A pair of screw.

bolts 5| are threaded into lugs 41- (see Fig. 2) carried by the panel34. The lugs are each adapted to have their respective upper ends 43positioned over the inner face of theflange 52 of casing wall 30, sothat by drawing the lugs toward the panel, the saidperipheral flange oredge 52 of the wall, about said opening, is clamped between the paneland the lugs. Preferably, each of the bolts 5| associated with the lugs41 and 48 is provided with a polygonal socket 316 for receiving asuitable complementary wrench, not shown, for rotating the bolts. A pin13, carried by panel 34, guides its associated lug. A suitable sealingand cushioning washer 53, of rubber or like material, is positioned inthe recess or pocket into which the panel 34 fits, when secured to thehousing wall 35.

The coin slot cover plate 35 (see Fig, 3) is received in a recess orpocket 54, provided with a sealing and cushioning washer 55. The pocketis formed by providing a peripheral flange 55 about the opening 35in'the rear wall of the casing. The plate 35 has at its lower edge, oneor more lugs 51 (see also Figs. 4 and 5) the free ends of which lugsmaybe introduced into the opening and which lie upon the inner face ofthe flange 55 or rear wall. The upper'end of the plate 35 front wall ofthe casing and the rear plate I2 is disposed adjacent the rear wall ofthe casing, and

the rear plate 12, available forlike attention. It will be pointed out,that the coin slot. as well as carries one or more studs 58. Thestuds'are round (see Fig. 6) and each has a chord-like slot 11 eachofwhich serves as a pocket for receiving one end of a washer-like lockingmember 59 rotatably mounted on the inside face of an apertured plate I8mounted on the rear wall of the casing. Each of the lugs is received insuch aperture or opening 19 and projects therethrough so as to exposethe slots in the studs to the looking members 59. The locking membersare chamfered as shown at 55. The'locking member 59 is provided with apair of diametrically disposed sockets or pockets 55, into which theteeth or lugs 5| on the end of a spanner wrench type of tool 52 (seeFig. '1) -'may enter, and the toothed end of which tool may be insertedinto the chamber by way of the large opening 33 for rotatably-actuatingthe locking rings or-members 59.

Windows 53 and 54 (see Figs, 1 and 3) are provided at the front and rearof the device, and through each of which a signal device or flag 55, 55is observable. The one window is provided in the panel 34 and the otheris provided in the casing wall. The signals are adapted to cooperatewith various other parts of the meter mechanism in a manner and forpurposes explained later.

other mechanisms are so associated andrelated to one another and to therear plate II, that they may be attached and detached, as units.through.

the opening in the rear wall of the casing, thus permitting expeditiousservicing and replace- "ment of parts, operation of which maybe im- Asuitable shank 51 is formed at the lower end of the housing 3|, wherebyto permit mounting V of the device on a suitable standard, in anysuitpaired by the insertion of various articles by mischievous persons.

The front and rear plates (Fig. 23) are held in spaced relation bycustomary means, forexample, suitable studs such as 83, with whichsuitable screws 84.0 cooperate, in accordance with customary practice.The upper ends of the plates, at the outer corners thereof are securedto inverted-T-shaped brackets 84 and 95 (see Fig. 11). The bracketsserve as supports for the shaft or axle 85 for the signals 55 and 5.5.Each signal comprises a white plate or panel and a red plate or panel.These panels are so related and connected that while the signals maymove about the horizontal axle or axis 85, the/signal panels ofidentical color are exposed at the windows at the front and back of thecasing. The plates or panels 81, 88, 89 and 95, are graduated toindicate periods of time, and are adapted to cooperate with an indicator9|, (see also Fig. 14) comprising a pair of fingers 92 and 93, forshowing the elapsed time of meter operation (see Fig. 29) When theestablished period of parking time has elapsed, the red panels are movedto positions adjacent thefingers for visibly indicating that the parkingtime is being exceeded. At other times, during operation of the device,the white panels are positioned adjacent the fingers.- Thismatter of twocolor signals and their operation, as generwithin or secured to thecasing by threaded bolts 10. -The bolts 15 extend through suitableapertures in the frame 59 and cooperate with the easing as indicated.

The meter mechanism comprises a clock mechanism which may be of anysuitable construction. Essentially it comprises a spring motor, anescapement and a suitable gear train. Means are provided whereby theclock mechanism may be rendered operative upon introduction of a propercoin or token into the device and also for rendering the clock mechanisminoperative after a determinable period of time, as well as foractuating the signals and signal operating parts from the clock motor.

As exemplified herein, (see Figs. 1 and 23) the referred to means andmechanisms, in accordance with customary clock structures, comprises theframe 59. The frame in turn comprises-a front plate 'II and a rear plate12. The terms front plate and rear plate are used in the same sense inwhich the opposite apertured walls of the casing were called front andrear walls.

Thus, the front plate H is disposed adjacent the ally related will beexplained in more detail hereafter. It is in order, however, to statethat the movement of the signals on their axis. is accomplished (seealso Fig. 28) by means of linkage including a bracket 94 secured to axleor shaft and link having at its upper end a pivoted connection withbracket 94 in offset or eccentric relation to the axis of axle or shaft85. The lower end of link 95 is connected with a lever I08, of suitableactuating mechanism, explained later (see Fig. 29) for synchronizedoperation of the signals with the other parts of the meter mechamsm,

In Fig. 24 is shown, rather diagrammatically, the gear train, springmotor and cooperating parts for actuating the. indicator 9|, includingthe one spaced finger 92 thereof. The indicator fingers 92 and 93supported by indicator arm 9| straddle the signals 55, 55 (see Fig. 28).

The spring motor winding stem 45 (see Figs. 11 and 23) is associatedwith the customary clock spring barrel, ratchet, etc., whereby the woundspring within the barrel'QS operates a gear train indicated generally at91, the last element 8| of which is any one of variouscustomaryescapements, shown in detail in Fig. 11.

'Coupled with the gear train (see also Fig. 29),

is a pair of gears'98' and 99. These gears 98 and 99 are mounted on thesame shaft or axle I and are identical, except that one gear is loose onthe shaft and the other is fixed to the shaft. The two gears 98 and 99may be locked together and for that purpose there is provided an idlergear IIII. The idler gear IN is rotatably mounted on a pivoted leverI02, and falls into engagement with gears 98 and 99 under the action ofgravity, the positioning of gear IM and its supporting lever beingactuated from the motor train in a manner that will be explained. Asexemplified herein, the gear 98 is fixed to shaft I00, as is also the.gear I03. The gear 99, integral with gear I04 is loose or freelyrevoluble upon shaft I00, except when the idler gear IOI is in mesh withit, and at which time the gears 98 and 99 are locked for movementtogether. The gear I04 receives power from gear I05 in power train 91.The gear I03 (see Fig. 24) and the gear 98 are fixed to shaft I00. GearsI04 and 99 are fixed together on a hollow shaft rotatable on shaft IOI.Gear I03 is engaged by the gear segment I06 carrying the indicator 9|. Apin I01, (see Fig. 29) carried by gear segment I06, is adapted toactuate a lever I08 (see also Figs. 23 and 25.) which is pivoted on theaxle or shaft I09 and onwhich shaft the segmental gear I06 is fixedlymounted. The end of lever I08, remote from the end thereof that isadapted to contact pin I01, is pivotally connected to the link 95 of thesignal (Figs. 11, 23 and 28). The said pivotal connection is effected bymeans of a bearing pin IIO carried by the angularly turned end III oflever I08 and the bearing pin extends through a suitable aperture in thelink 95 and a cotter pin or the like inserted in the transverse apertureH2 in bearing IIO prevents separation of the, link 95 and lever I08. Thesignal is weighted so that it will return, under the influence ofgravity, to its normal position, I

in which the red panels are disposed at the windows in the device, aposition signalling improper parking of a vehicle. The pin I01 is sopositioned on the segmental gear, that in setting the indicator toinitial position'in actuating the device the pin will actuate the leverfor moving the signals so the white signal panels are disposed adjacentthe windows. A pin II3 on the lever will be received by' a'springactuated catch I, to hold the white signal panels into position untilreleased upon expiration of allotted parking time, as more particularlynoted hereinafter, the catch then controlling release of the signals sothey may move under the influence of in front of banks, or one hour, asin most places where the meters would be located. The adjustment of theplate I20 is effected by means of an arcuate slot I2I in the plate I20,through which a. set screw I22 extends, the set screw being threadedinto a collar I23 secured to shaft I09. Suitable graduations I24 on theframe plate, cooperate with pointer or index finger I25 on theadjustment plate I20, to mark the setting of the time interval betweenmovement of the signals from abnormal or operating position, at whichtime the white panels are disposed at the windows, to normal ornon-operat-' ing position, at which time the red panels are so exposedor positioned.

The pin II8 (Figs. 23 and 29) is actuated by the lug II9 for turning thecatch M4 on its axis, for releasing the pin II3, thus freeing the leverand the signals to respond to the gravity influence of the weightedsignals. The spring I26, yieldingly holdsthecatch in position to re--ceive and hold the pin 3. The spring also yieldingly urges the pin 1 I8toward the lug H9. The pin I I8 and catch H4 are so related to oneanother and to the pin I I3 and lug I I9, that only a limited arcuatemovement of the catch H4 and pin H8 is possible before one or the otherof said members H4 and H8 contact either the pin H3 or lug II 9..Movement of indicator. 9| to an initial position is had through theaction of coil spring I21 and collar I28 mounted on shaft I09 to whichindicator 9I and its gear I06 are rigidly secured. This resetting of theindicator under spring action is permitted by the free turning of gearsI03 and 99 when'the idler gear ml is lifted incident to initiatingoperation of the meter mechanism. Any suitable arrangement for attainingthe indicated function the weight associated therewith, for returningthe signals to normal position.

The pin II3 carried by lever I08 is angular in I pin extends through anopening 30 in the frame.

plate H (see Fig. 11) and is acted upon 'by a lugg -II9 of the timeadjustment plate I20, upon the indicator "9| reaching apoint denotingthe expiration of anallotted parking period. The associated arm H1 andcatch II4 are then lifted (Fig. 25) to release pin I13 and permit upwardmovement of arm I I0 and a consequent return may be employed. As shownherein, the coil' spring I21 has its one end secured to shaft I09 (seeFig. 23) and its other end is anchored to the frame plate H by means ofa pin I30. The spring I21 is wound or tensioned as the indicator ismoved at timing rate under the influence of the main spring motor 96acting through the gear train I03, I05 and gear segment I06 (see Fig.24)

The pin II8 isadapted to contact a pivotally mounted lever I29 (Figs. 23and 13) that is provided to serve as a detent for end I34 of a lever'I3I action to stop escapement mechanism I32 as noted below. Also pinII8 rides on lug II9 of the time adjustment plate I20 and thus takes thestrain of gear I06 and indicator 9I due to spring motor 96, shaft I00,and associated gearnotched or stepped so as to provide a detent I36 forcooperation with a pivotally'mounted lever I9I, the lowerend I34 ofwhich lever I3I (Figs. 11 and 12); is adaptedto contact the escapementmember I32 for holding one of the pallets thereof in contact with theescapement wheel I33. At such times as the lever I3I contacts bratingmember I22 15 held in an of! center or case,

unbalanced position, as shown in Fig. 12. The

and :carries a pin or stud I49 disposed above and adapted to cooperatewith trip lever I49 (see also Figs. 14 and 29) of a trip mechanism thatis actuated incident to introduction of a coin into the device. Asuitable stop pin I44 or 75 see the like, limits the extent to which thelever I92 may move toward the gears 99 and 99 and consequently serves toassure positioning of the idler gear for proper cooperation with thegears detent structure of lever I29 (Fig. 13) is opera- 5 98 and 99 whenserving its indicated locking-or tive for holding the lever end I34 outof engagejoining function. I ment with the vibrating member I32 (seeFig. The trip mechanism for controlling the idler 12). In the normal orinoperative condition of gear (Figs- 14 nd 2 comprises a lever I49 thedevice, the lower end I94 of lever I3I isloosely mounted or Joumalled onshaft I99. positioned beneath the heel I99 of the lever I29. m Movementof lever I45 on shaft I46 is limited In order towithdraw and withholdthe lever I9I by an arm I41 (Fig. 23) fixed on shaft I46 and fromcontact with the vibrating escapement having 9. lug I49 thereon extendedover the arm member I32, and permit operation of the clock I 49 of leverI45. The springs I59 and I 59 yieldmechanism, the lower end of leverItIis moved ingly urge the lever arm I49 toward the lug into the detent I99(see Fig. 13). When the 15 I49. The spring I50 has one of its endsdislever I29 is lifted, by the pin II8, the lever end posed beneath thelug I5I on lever arm I' ii, I24 passes beneath the detent, by reason ofthe and after a number of turns thereof about the action of spring I91,and contacts the vibrating shaft I49, has its other end formed about the7 member I32. The upper end I99 of lever I3! second arm I52 of leverI45. The arm I41 and is disposed in the path of pointer 92 secured tospring I59 are used as a safety device, in view indicator 9|, as theindicator pointer, shown in of the'specific coin slot shown herein,- toprevent Fig. 11, moved to the right hand and of its tripping or releaseof the meter mechanism by course. Inasmuch as the lug H9 moves with theinsertion of articles, other than a proper coin, indicator, the pin II!is free to move downwardfor example, a long, thin piece of steel, intothe ly under the influence of spring I26, and the decoin slot for thepurpose of initiating operation tent carryin portion'of lever I29 isurged downof the timing mechanism. Also, the arrangewardly by the actionof spring I31, wherefore, ment of arm I41 and spring I50 with lever I49when the indicator9l contacts lever Ill, the permits manual release ofthe idler gear, as in lower end of lever I3I is lodged in the detentadjusting the device, without operation of the in lever I29. Such actionis accomplised very 3o coin slot mechanism. This feature is of benefitquickly and the pendulum is released to the. inin assembly and servicingand at which time the fluence of gravity and movement thereof andprotecting casing or housing 3| permits ready starting of the timingmechanism is positively access to the lever I45. With other types ofassured. coin slots, the spring I50 and arm I" may be The clip I49 (seeFig. 11) is provided tosecure dispensed with. The trip lever arm I49(see the pendulum while the device is in transit or also Fig. 11) has adetent I99-in which the pin in storage. 1 I49 of the idler gear leverI92 is received and The idler gear IlII (see Figs. 23 and 29) is theheld, for holding the idler gear in engagement 'instrumentality whichlocks or joins the spring with gears 99 and 99. The extreme outer end ofmotor power train and the various parts, includm the lever arm I49 ishooked upwardly to preing the indicator 9I, and which parts areintervent movement of the pin I42, laterally beyond related andinterdependent as previously -exthe lever arm I49. The lever arm I49,outplained. when the idler gear is released from wardly of, said detentI 92 is so shaped, see at its normal function of Joining the gears 99and I94, thatthe pin I49 will readily locate in the 99, the indicatormay be manually moved back detent incident to normal operation ormoveand forth as desired in adjusting the device, and ment of the parts.The pin I43 therefore serves consequently, when in the intendedfunctioning as means limiting the upward movement of of the device, theidler, gear is moved to release lever arm I49. Y or inoperativeposition, the indicator is free to The safety device comprising thespringactu- 'respond to the action of the spring I21 and to so ated armI" is able to move upwardly, away cause such coaction of the variousother parts, from the trip lever arm I49, for a slight distance, thatthe clock mechanism is rendered operative, whereby to permit positioningof some of the the signals are actuated, etc., wherefore the mecoin slotmechanisms in positions for attaining ter is set in operation for itsintended purpose the indicated safety feature. In instances where orfunction of timing the parking period for 55 the safety feature is notconsidered necessary, which a person is obligedto insert a proper cointhe arm I4I may be dispensed with, and trip into the device. Momentaryrelease of the idler lever arm I49 is fixed directly to. the shaft I49,gear is sufficient to accomplish the indicated instead of beingindirectly connected thereto conditioning of the device. andactuatedthereby, through the member I41. The'release of the idler isaccomplished by re- Incident to operation of the device from the leasingthe lever I92, (see also Figs. 11 and 14) coin slot, it should beobserved that the shaft I99 so the force of the spring motor, operating(see Fig. 23), on which the indicator 9| is fixed, through gear 99, willforce the idler gear away also has fixed thereto an arm I 94 which, whenfrom the gears 99 and 99, thus freeing the gear the indicator isrestored to its Initial position 99 and permitting the spring I21 tomove the 35 upon starting the device by deposit of a coin indicator andinitiate operation of the escapeand resultant lifting of pin I49 andidlergear ment, as previously explained. IOI, is adapted to contact apin III'assocIated The lever I92, carrying idler gear IIII is pivwith acoin trap mechanism (see also Figs. 19, otally mounted on shaft I. Theupper end of 29 and 30), forming a detail of the coin slot lever I92 isoffset as shown at I42 (see Fig. 29) 7o mechanism.

For the purpose of explaining the coin slot mechanism and the lifting ofarm I49 .to actu coin receiving chamber.

coin fault mechanism to trip or release the idler gear 1 The coin-slotcover plate 35 (see Fig. 4) has an opening I50 therein, and through"which a coin is to be inserted into .the :device. Upon the inside faceof the plate 35, and surrounding the opening, is a suitable, cushion orwasher for bridging the. space between the plate 35 and a coin slotplate I51 (see also Fig. detachably mounted by screws or thelike uponsuitable studs or standards I58 carried by the rear frame plate 12. Acoin receivingslot I59 is formed in the plate I61. The slot I59 is largeenough to a permit slight clearance for a coin of proper denomination tobe inserted.

Upon the rear face of plate I51 (see Figs. 16 andll) aremounted variousparts that yieldingly close the, aperture I69 in plate I51 and whichaperture is exposed through the opening in cover plate 35 so a coininserted through opening I58 may enter slot I59. The doormember I 80 ispivotally mounted at I6I on the rear face of plate I51 and in its normalposition it extends over the slot I59. The slot closin rtion of the doorhas its edge chamfered at 259 so the act of forcing a coin over'thechamfered portion thereof will move the door about its pivotal mounting,against the yielding resistance of spring I62, for opening the door tothe entry of a coin. A second or auxiliary door member I69 is pivotallymounted at I64 on the plate and extends over the inner face of door I60.An

arcuate slot and pin connection I65, I66 between .the doors, togetherwith the'action of spring I61,

effects coaction between the doors for yieldingly closing the slot andalso for imparting an advancing impulse or force to a coin, as soon asone-half of the coin has been moved between the doors and has beenreleased by the person inserting same. A tapered or chamfered edge I88on the door 563 reduces friction with the coin and gives impulse tothe-coin movement. A block I69 is secured on the plate and serves as abearing for part of the door I63 and carries a stop piri or lug I10 forlimiting movement of the door I63 under the influence of spring I61 andalso serves as an abutment for the slot closing edge of door I forlimiting movement of door I60 under the influence 01' spring I62.

Upon detachment of plate I51 and its associated elements as shown, forexample in Fig. 16 from the studs I58 (Fig. 23), there is exposed a faceplate I1I (see also Figs. 18 and 30) having apertured lateral arms I12and I13 for receiving the tips of two of the studs I58 for pofltioningthe face plate with its slot I14 in alignment with the slot I59 in plateI51. The face plate "I serves as the forward wall of a The face plate ismounted by screws orthe like, on the forward edge I16 of a block I11.Screw holes are shown a so as to use the recess or space so provided asthe coin chamber I15; A suitable washer I8I secured between the blockand the plate I (seeFig. 21) by a screw or the like serves to spacedlyconnect the forward ends of the block and the plate. The rear end ofplate I80 (as seen in Figs. 21 and 23) is mounted directly assets; .7 g8 up n the rear end of the bloc beyondmQwT' in the block. I

Within the upper part of the chamber I15 .(see Figs. 18,- 19, 20 and 30)is a floating coin responsive trigger device I82. This trigger device,operating under the influence of the po-' tential energy impartedthereto or exerted thereon and on parts cooperating'therewith, incidentto introduction of a coin into the coin chamber. (see Fig. 29), causestripping or release of the idler gear IOI, through the agency of thetrip mechanism lever I45 and the shaft I46 with which the trip lever isadapted to move. The

trip mechanism shaft I46 (seeFig. 23) extends through the rear frameplate 12 and has a bear-' ing in a suitable socket I provided therefor,on the rear face of coin slot plate I51. Thus the shaft I46 ispositioned in. close proximity to thecoin slot, for actuation thereoffrom the coin slot. Also, the shaft I46 is free of connection with allother parts of the coin slot, thus facilitating servicing and removal ofvarious coin slot parts and mechanisms, without disturbing the tripmechanism asssembly.

The floating trigger I82 has a relatively loose bearing with or on theblock I11. The trigger comprises an integral laterally extending stud orin the block I11. The stud I89 is disposed at the approximate junctionof the arms. I88 and I9I of the trigger I82, at that part of the trigger7 which may be termed the body portion thereof. A spring I92 has its oneend attached to the stud I89 and has its other end attached to a studI93 extending laterally from the'lower forward portion of the block I11,exteriorly of the coin chamber I15. The trigger I82 (see also Figs. 19and 20) also comprises an upwardly extending arm I93 carrying a stud I94and to which stud a spring I95 has its one end attached,

the other end of the spring being attached to the forward upper portionof the block I11 in any suitable manner, for example, by threading theend convolution of the spring through a suitable aperture I96 in theblock. The said three studs I86, I89 and I94 extend from the same sideof ,the trigger. The springs, operating on the trigger, cause thetrigger to operate on a coin for moving the coin into the chamber I15.As the coin enters the chamber, the springs accomplish an equalizing oftension or pressure of the divergent trigger arms on the coin, incidentto which the trigger lug or stud I91, about to be explained, is moved toeffect tripping action of the metering mechanism.

From the other side of the trigger, (see Figs.

' 18, 21, 23 and 30) and extending laterally from at I18. The block I11together with other parts the body portion of the trigger, andprojecting beyond the plate I80 is a lug or stud I91 (see also Fig. 29)which is the approximate or ultimate tripping element. This stud I91tisadapted to move rearwardly as a coin is introduced into the coinchamber, then to move upwardly as the coin forces the trigger I82upwardly, as generally indicated in Fig. 20, and then while the lug I91is thus still elevated, due to the presence of the coin, the trigger ismoved in reverse direction or forwardly as it slips downwardly infollowing the curvature of the coin. In so doing the forward movement ofthe trigger I82, acting through stud I91 striking finger I98 actuatesfinger I98 (see Eig. 23) mounted on trip mechaniam shaft I45 anddepresses trip'lever I45 for momentarily releasing the idler pawl, aspreviously explained.

While the general operation of the coin slot mechanism is as explained,several other submechanisms are involved and are provided to preventtripping of the mechanism, except in instances where a coin-of properdenomination has irretrievably passed into the coin slot. Accordingly(see Fig. 19) there is provided a base or bottom I99 for the coinchamber I15. The base I99 is attached to the block and -has its upperedge chamfered or inclined as shown at 200 so as to cause the coin toslide laterally out vo1 the chamber I 15. Inorder toprevent escape ofthe coin from the chamber, until that is desired. there is provided apivotally mounted gate "I (see also Fig. 30) which is so related toother parts of the device, that as a coin is introduced into the chamberI15, the chamfered lower arm 202 of the gate is raised to project-abovethe base I99, thus providing a lateral abutment for preventing lateraldischarge of the coin 203 from chamber I15. The gate is moved asexplained, by contact of the trigger stud I91 upon the cam face 204formed on the upper part of the gate. thus moving the gate about itspivotal mounting 205 on the block I11. The lower arm 202 of the gate (sealso Fig. 20) is guided by a slot and pin arrangement shown at 205, 201,the pin 201 being shown as a set screw extending through slot 205 ingate arm 202 and carried by base I99 of the chamber 115. Thisarrangement is merely to maintain a close sliding fit of the arm 202relative to base I99.

The gate 20I (see Fig. 30) also includes a rearwardly projecting,laterally turned portion or catch member 208, having a beveled orinclined rear face 209, whereby the catch portion may contact and movepast a locking or holding pawl or lever 2I0, pivotally mounted at H I onthe rear wall of block I11. The locking lever 2I0 (see also Fig. 21)comprises an arm 212 carrying the pin or stud I55 which is adapted to becontacted by the arm I54 (see Figs. 23 and 29), fixed to shaft I09 formovement with indicator 9|. A spring 2I3 has one end connected to thepin I55 and'the other to stud 2I4 on block I11 and yieldingly positionsthe of the catch 209 of the gate 20I, when the gate is moving under theinfluence of a coin entering the coin chamber I15. A stop pin 229 limitsmovement of lever 2I0. As soon as the idler gear IN is released and theindicator moves under the influence of spring I21, the arm I54associated with the indicator 9| and its shaft I09, con-- tacts the pinI55 and releases the gate from the locking lever 2I0, and the gate,responding to the influence of spring means 2I6 which operates throughlinkage 2l1, falls to its normal position, shown in Fig. 19, and thecoin is projected from the chamber I15 by reason of the energy that wasimparted to the springs I92 and I incident to introduction of the coininto the chamber I15. The action of the trigger stud I91 upon the tripmechanism, and the response of the spring pressed indicator upon releaseof the idler gear occur so rapidly that there apparently is simultaneousrelease of the coin from chamber I and tripping of the mechanismsassociated with the trip lever shaft I46, although as a matter of fact,it is clear that the coin is not released from chamber I15 until theidler gear has been upper arm 2I5 of locking lever 2I0 in the path Imomentarily released for releasing the indicator and subsequent releaseof the gate are by the indicator shaft 09.

The particular sequence of operation of the indicated parts is not ofparticular consequence. It is however important, that the trigger,operating under the influence of the spring or springs that firstyieldingly resist entry of the coin into the chamber I15 and then, byreason of the shifting of the trigger, cause the trigger to pull or drawthe coin into the chamber, is at the same time conditioned for actuatingthe tripping mechanism for at least momentarily releasing the'idler gearcarrying lever as previously explained. In its broad aspect, the relatedphase of the invention is therefore concerned with so.

the space 8 between the divergent arms Ill and I9I of the trigger.Normally the trigger, under the influence of the springs associatedtherewith, lies too low in the chamber I15 to accommodate a proper coinin the chamber, consequently, when a coin is moved into the chamher, thetrigger is moved upwardly as previously explained, for the purposespreviously explained. Thus a coin responding to forced entry thereofinto the chamber II5becomes a factor in the functioning of the coin slotmechanism.

The mechanism shown at 2I1 (Fig. 22) indicates generally conventionalmeans for actuating a coin counter 2 I 9, and which includes yieldingmeans, for example, spring m, which yieldingly resists movement of thegate 20I (see also Fig. 14) from its normal position. By connecting thegate 20I to the counter mechanism, for

example by link 220 having pivotal connection ister or count one coin ashaving been intro-.

duced into the device.

From the description given, it is seen that any attempt to actuate themeter by introducing a coin that is too small, will not have the effectof raising and latching the gate 2M because the coin in contacting theforward arm I9I of trigger I02 will not raise the triggerenough to latchthe back arm 208 with locking lever 21!). Consequently the coin willfall out of the chamber I15 without properly actuating the trigger ortripping the idler gear release lever I45.

It was previously explained generally that the trigger stud I91, trippedmechanism on idler gear release lever shaft I46. That mechanism (seeFigs. 23 and 29) comprises'the lug or finger i98 mounted on shaft I46and having a limited free movement on shaft I46, relative to its com-The flnger I98 has an aperture 222 therein and into which projects a pin422, carried by arm 22I. A spring 223 (see also Fig. 26) having itsopposite ends connected with the finger I98 and arm 22I, yieldinglypermits limited relative movement of the arm and finger and thuscushions the blow the meter. a

The finger I98 includes an angularly turned intended. Incidental stored"energy is also used to discharge the chamiected forwardly incident toshiftinglnf (the trigger arms by reason of the entry of a coin into thespace 2l8 between the trigger fingers,

the trigger lug I91 moves over the lower or camming face of the fingerI98 and the finger is rotatably actuated, thus rotatably actuating theidler gear release lever shaft M5, and tripping the idler gear lever aspreviously explained.

As a precaution or safety means for preventing rotatable actuation ofthe shaft I40, except in the intended manner, there is fixed on shaft 5a lug 225 (Figs. 23, 14 and 29) having a raised shoulder 221 forming alower portion 225.

through deposit of a succeeding coin. Thisar- The shoulder and lowerportion cooperate with a rearwardly projecting lug 228 carried by doorI60 on the coin slot plate 551 (see Figs.'16 and 17) The lug 228 liesover the lower portion when the door I60 is closed. When it is open, asduring the insertion of a coin or other object, the lug is moved to theleft as een in Fig. 23 and lies over the raised shoulder 22?. When thelug lies over the shoulder, the shoulder acts as a stop for the lug andthus prevents rotatory actuation of shaft M8. Otherwise, when the doorI60 is closed, the registry of the lug 228 with the lower portion of thelug 225 permits sumcient movement of the shaft M6 to trip the mechanism.It will be seen, therefore, that no actuation of the device is possibleduring the time that the door is open. A coin must be'inserted and thedoor closed behind the coin before the mechanism is actuated. One of theessentially new features of the invention is the provision of a coinreceiving chamber, with which is associated, means that are conditionedby the introduction of a coin into that chamber, so that theconditioning of such means and the subsequent ejection of the coin underthe influence of the energy so applied to such means may be availed ofeffecting a trigger or trip action for initiation of a cycle for whichthe device is thereto, the indicated that operate in the coin chamber orwhich are operated by reason of the creation of such condition in thecoin chamber of the coin slot mechanism.

The spring actuated doors on the plate I51, serve as power-actuatedmeans for forceful entry of coins into the coin chamber I15, and forconditioning the springs associated with'the trigger and other parts ofthe coin slot mechanisms, for attaining automatic operation of suchparts and mechanisms for attaining the desired or intended tripping oroperation of the metering mechanism. Thus the device is protectedagainst undue force in that the force with which the coins areintroaaeaaaa Y;

In order that the actuating coin may be exposed to view-the opening 330and transparent closure 33l provided therefor (see Fig. 3) are providedin the casing 3| at a place at which a coin is temporarily held in thecoin chute 333 (see also Fig. 14) which receives the coin as it isdischarged from the coin slot mechanism upon dropping of arm 202 formingthe bottom of the coin chamber, the bevelled surface'of this armpermitting easy egress (see Fig. 3).

The coin is retained in the visible position by arm 332 until this armis withdrawn by lifting links 2|! and H0 upon lifting the coin chamberarm 202 rangement is provided so the coin or other article thatoccasioned the last tripping of the device will be exposed. This featureis availed of by police or other oflicers whose duties include thesupervising of parking meters, so that if any one avails himself ofparking privileges adjacent a parking meter, and uses a slug or spurioustokenfor that purpose, the officer may observe that fact, under whichcircumstances the officer should remain on duty at such station untilthe vehicle is claimed and arrest of the offender is made. Suitable tripmechanism operated from link 220, releases the temporarily held coin,when the meter is actuated by insertion of another coin in the device.Such mechanism (see' also Fig. 22) comprises a finger 332 which normallyobstructs the coin chute passage and which is withdrawn from the passagewhen the link 220 is actuated.

When link 220 is lifted or moved upward-by gate 2!, the arm 5!" of lever502, pivotaily mounted at 503, moves arm 500 of coin counter 2l9,downward (see also Fig. 22) against the yielding resistance of spring5l2 for registering a coin. At such time, the link 50.5 connecting at508 onto lever 50'! is actuated for releasing the coin temporarily heldby the, finger 332 of lever 501. with the faces 510 and 5|! on lever502, that as the lever 502, Fig. 14, is moved counter clockwise, pin 500is seated in the detent in which pin 509 is shown. The spring 2I6yieldingly holds the free.

upper end of link in contact with pins 508 and 509. Consequently, as thelever 502 is released and is moved in clockwise direction under the imfiuence of spring 5I2 lifting arm 504, the link 505 is lifted by pin 508to suflicient height to move lever 50'! on its pivotal mounting 5l3. Thepivot 5l3 is carried by bracket 5. As the pin 509 approaches its normalposition, as shown in Fig. 14, the link 505 is restrained by pin 509 andpin 500 is moved from the detent.

Returning now to a fuller discussion of the sig-.

nals 65 and 66 of our device, attention is directed toFig. 28 in whichis shown a view of parts observed when looking at the right hand end ofthe structure shown in Fig. 11. The panels 88 and of signals and 60respectively are red, while panels 81 and are white, for example. Whitepanels 81 or 90 are disposed as shown in Fig. 28, when the parts are inabnormal or operating position, as the meter is operating for measuringthe period ofparking time. At such time it is seen that these panels aredisposed in vertical position adjacent the windows 63 and 64respectively. Both red and white panels have identical calibrations foridentical cooperation with the indicator fingers 92 and 93. The meter ispreferably so set that upon expiration of the time limit,

' the red signal panels 88 and 89 displace the duced into the'coinchamber may be controlled by the manufacturer of the device.

panels 81 and 90 respectively, however, the clock mechanism continues tooperate for an additional The pins 508 and 509 so cooperate period oftime, or allowed overtime period, for example, ten minutes, as shownherein. This arrangement defeats the complaint that the user of aparking space might offer to an arresting officer to the effect that thetime limit had just expired and that the user had no opportunity ofmoving his vehicle or of purchasing more parking time.

The panels 88 and 90 are fixedly mounted on a pair of spaced brackets520, fixedly mounted on shaft or axle 86. The panels 81 and 89 arepiv'otally attached to the lower edges of panels 88 and 90 respectively.The lower edges of panels 81 and 89 are pivotally connected to the lowerends of links 52I and 522 respectively. The upper ends of links 52I and522 are pivotally attached to opposite ends of bracket 529, fixed tobracket 85 (see Fig. 11). A stop pin 529, (see Fig. 28) carried bybracket 523, serves as an abutment against which one of the brackets 520may contact, when the signal is released to respond to the action ofgravity upon the weight 525 associated with the signal. i

As panel 88 is raised and panel 90 is lowered through tilting of support520 by pulling of link spring tension, as more particularly pointed outhereinbefore. While the coin door is open, lug 228 on the door isdisplaced to engage portion 221 of lever 225, thereby locking shaft 145against rotation during upward movement of the trigger I82. During therearward and upward trigger movement, trigger. stud I91 contacts face299 of pivotally mounted gate i ,forcing catch member 208 intoengagement with holding pawl 2I9 pivotally mounted on the rear wallofblock fill. Chamfered lower arm 202 of gate 20E accordingly is heldabove the base I99 of coin chamber Hi5 (see Figf20), thus providing alateral abutment for preventing lateral discharge of the coin from thechamber, 'The coin finally passes in the space between trigger arms I 89and Hit. The trigger then moves forwardly under spring action, followingthe curvature of the coin.- Meanwhile, the coin door closes (see Fig.16) and lug 228 accordingly is displaced over portion 226 of lever 225,thereby permitting limited rotation of shaft I49. At this time, stud l91of the trigger raises 95, panel 81 is lifted into view in the position Ypreviously occupied by panel 88, and the panel 89 is swung out of viewpermitting its previous position to be occupied by panel 90. Panels 81and 89, of course, are directly moved by the rigidly supported panels 88and 90 respectively from which they hingedly depend. The lower edges ofpanels 81 and 89 are properly positioned through the supporting links"52I and 522 respectively. Thus as support 520 is tilted back and forthunder the action of the weight525 and link 95, panels 88 and 81 arebrought into and out of view on one side of the meter and panels 89 and90 respectively are brought into and out of view on the other side ofthe meter.

The links 52I and 522, panels 81, 88, 89 and 90, and the various partscooperating therewith are so proportioned and related that all thepanels may assume vertical positions and the panels 81 and 89 may bothassume horizontal'positions in substantially the same plane, withoutinterference with other parts of the device.

Summarizing the operation of our device, attention is particularlydirected to Fig. 29, where- -in is illustrated the particularrelationship of certain working parts of the meter at the expiration ofa predetermined parking period. It must be noted that indicator 9I is inextreme right position and with coin spring I21 wound tight on shaftI09. The clocking mechanism is locked from operation by lever I3Ipressing escapement I32 into engagement with one of the pallets ofescapement wheel I33; the lever I3I at the same time holding pendulumI35 in unbalanced position. It is to be noted further that catch I I4,and pin I I3 on lever I08 are disengaged and the signalling mechanismattached to bearing pin IIO through link 95 (Fig. 28) has fallen bygravity to lift the link and rotate lever I08 in a clockwise directionabout shaft I09. At this time, the red panels 88 and 89 of thesignalling mechanism are exposed to view in windows 63 and 64 of themeter casing.

Clocking of a predetermined parking period is initiated from the meterposition just described by inserting a suitable coin 203 in the metercoin slot. As the coin is forced through coin slot I14 by the coin dOOrmechanism illustrated in Figs. 16

arm 224 of lever I to turn shaft I49 in a clockwise direction.

Upon rotation of shaft I40, spring pressed lever I45 loosely mounted onshaft I46, is depressed by lug I48 of arm I41. Pin I43 on lever I02,accordingly, is released, and idler gear I M is moved back and out ofengagement with gears 98 and 99. Thesetwo gears then are freed torelative movement and spring in drives pointer 91 to the left, as seenin the drawing, whereupon shaft I09, segmental gear 18, gears I03 and90, and shaft I00 are rotated, while gear 99 and gear I04 idle on theshaft. v

As pointer 9I rotates to the left, arm I54 fixed to shaft I09 strikespin I55 of detent 2I2, thereby moving pawl 2| 0 and releasing catch 208of under spring action to contact pin II3. When and 17, it contacts armI9I of floating trigger,

pointer 9I approaches its extreme left position, pin I 01 on thesegmental gear I05 strikes the right end of lever I08, causing the leverto rotate in a counterclockwise direction about shaft I09. By thismovement, link 95 is pulled down (see Fig. 28) and the white panels and66 of the signalling mechanism are exposed to view in windows 83 and 64of the meter casing, as more particularly indicated above. Latch II 4then moves over pin II3 to lock the white signals in position.

When pointer 9| reaches its extreme left position as seen in Fig. 29, aportion of the pointer (see also Fig. 11) strikes lever I3I of theescapement locking mechanism moving the lower end I34 of the lever awayfrom escapement member I32 and into the detent I 36, Pendulum I35, whichas previously noted was held off-center, starts the clockwork motor. Atthis time, gear IN on tion. as shown in Fig. 29, lug II9 rotating with Yshaft m, contacts m-m causing catch m to release the pin 3, whereuponthe redsignals It and 88 come to view-in windows It and B4 of 1the-meter casing, as explained hereinbefore. Lug

- contact the edge of a coin introduced between leave the chamber, atrigger extending into the chamber and having a portion thereof disposedthe said arms, a pivotal connection between the trigger and the chamberforming means, spring means operative on the trigger for resilientlyresisting pivotal movement of the trigger, and

, adapted to supply energy to complete movement when the device istripped by insertion of a coin into the coin slot during the clocking ofa predetermined period, operation is the same as outlined above, exceptof course, the white signals and their controlling lever I00, remainundisturbed and the clockwork continues to run while pointer 9| returnto initial left-hand position.

As many possible embodiments may be made of our invention and as-manychanges may be made in the embodiment hereinbefore set forth, it is tobe understood that all matter described herein, or shown in theaccompanying drawings, is to be interpreted as illustrative and not as alimitation.

What is claimed is:

l. The combination of a metering device comprising a power actuated timemechanism including gearing and a drive gear connected thereto, a drivengear adapted for movement independently of and for movement with saiddrive gear,

an idler gear, means for moving the idler gear relative to the driveand. driven gears for selectively connecting and {disconnecting saiddrive and driven gears, means for normally urging the idler gear intoconnecting relationship with said.

drive and driven gears, a trip mechanism for releasing the idler gearfrom the drive and driven gears for disconnecting the driven gear fromthe drive gear, (an) indicator connected with the driven gear foractuation from said driven gear, spring means yieldingly resistingmovement of the indicator when the drive and driven gears are connected,a coin 'slot device comprising means for forming a coin receivingchamber and in eluding a gate controlling discharge of coins from saidchamber, a coin actuated and controlled trigger in the chamber, meansfor latching the gate for preventing discharge from the chamber, meansoperating with the indicator for releasing the gate from said latchingmeans when the indicator is released to the action of the yielding meansoperative on said indicator, a movable signal means for cooperation withthe indicator and comprising panels normally retained in one position,means operable with the indicator under the influence of said yieldingmeans for moving the signal means to abnormal position of said signalmeans, a catch for releasably holding the signal means in abnormalposition and adapted to be actuated for releasing said signal means uponsaid indicator reaching a pre-determined indicating position, and meansresponsive to operation of the trigger, for tripping said trip mechanismto release the idler gear and permit the indicator to return to initialposition under the action of the spring means and bring the signal meansto abnormal .position and hold it there by said catch.

2. A coin slot device for actuating an associ-- ated mechanism, saiddevice comprising means for providing a coin receiving chamber of awidth approximating the thickness of a coin to be reby said trigger of acoin into the chamber after a substantial portion of the coin has beenotherwise forced into said chamber, and relatively retractile means fortemporarily precluding escape of a coin from the chamber until thetrigger has been conditioned for actuating the associated mechanism tobe controlled by the coin slot device.

3. In a device of the class described for actuating associatedmechanism, the combination of a' chambered member having an openingtherein for admitting a coin thereto and an opening for discharging acoin therefrom, a coin actuated trigger extending into said chamber forcontact with a coin introduced into said chamber by way of said firstmentioned opening, said trigger nism, and meansfor actuating said meansclosing ceived therein and having inlet and outlet openings throughwhich openings coins may-enter and u ceiving apparatus.

the second opening incident to the tripping of said associated mechanismwhereupon the second. mentioned opening is cleared for discharge of thecoin from the chamber.

4. In combination with an associated mechanism adapted to be tripped forinitiating funcassociated mechanism in the return of said resilientmeans to normal position.

5. The combination of means forproviding a coin receiving chamber, atrigger pivotally received in the chamber and having a trip portionthereof extending from said chamber, means resiliently operating on thetrigger, means having a slotted opening leading to said coin receivingchamber and having mounted thereon door means for forcefully moving acoin through the slot and .into the coin receiving chamber and againstthe resilient means operating on the trigger, whereby to energize thetrigger for movement, and meansactuated by said trigger upon itsmovement under the energy of said resilient means for actuating amechanism to be controlled by said coin actuated instrumentalities.

6. The combination with a coin receiving apparatus positioned in ahousing, of a wall of said housing having a slotted opening therein,resilient door means for normally maintaining said slotted openingclosed, and resilient means acting directly on a coin for forcefullymoving said coin past said door and into said coin reaeeaese i 1 7. Inapparatus of the character descrlbedin' tacting the edge of said coiniollowing an opencombination, a housing having a wall with a ing of saiddoor by reason of insertion of a coin slotted opening therein, doormeans 101' closing through said opening for forcing the coin past saidopening and having a portion adapted to be the door and the opening.contacted by an actuating coin, means resiliently 5 WAL'I'ERJ..HERSCHEDE. mounting said door means for swinging across the WILLIAMFOY HERSCHEDE. plane of the actuating coin, resilient means con- WILLIAMN. WOODRUFF.

